Cartier Tank Watches

About Cartier Tank Watches

In the early 1900s, most watchmakers focused on function over form. Louis Cartier, the founder of the Cartier brand, wanted to design a watch with style, something striking and unforgettable. Cartier followed his instincts and desires, and in 1917, a new creation was born: the Tank.

The Tank showcases a notably geometric and angular design. It features distinct proportions and strong, straight lines, elements that draw from the Renault FT-17 Army Tanks produced by the French during WWI. The unique bracelet with seamlessly integrated, flat, vertical bars known as brancards resemble the caterpillar tracks of the army tanks. Another distinguishing feature of the Tank is its blue steel and sword shaped hands. These have since become an iconic feature of all Cartier watches.

In all its decades of production, the Cartier Tank has evolved in the form of numerous variations. Some of the most notable iterations include the Tank Solo, Tank Americaine, and Tank Louis Cartier. Arguably, one of the most popular Tank models is the Tank Francaise, which Cartier first introduced in 1996. The Tank celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2017 with a diverse range of offerings, including the lavish Tank Cintree.

The Tank doesn’t just hold a significant place in the history of the Cartier, but in culture as well. Icons, from Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Princess Diana to Andy Warhol and Muhammed Ali, have worn the Tank. The Tank knows no gender or time or place. It’s timeless and defies trends. It’s a watch for everyone.